East Hudson Valley News

Robert Smithson's renowned artwork, Spiral Jetty, has been officially added to the National Register of Historic Places. The artwork, created in 1970 and considered a significant piece of Land art, is located at Rozel Point peninsula on the northeastern shore of Utah's Great Salt Lake. It consists of a coil formed by over six thousand tons of black basalt rocks and earth, extending 1,500 feet long and 15 feet wide into the lake.

In 1999, Nancy Holt, Smithson’s wife, along with the Estate of Robert Smithson, donated Spiral Jetty to Dia Art Foundation. Dia collaborates with several organizations including the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster University and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts to maintain and advocate for the artwork. Support from Utah’s Division of Forestry, Fire, and State Lands has also been crucial in preserving the site.

Jessica Morgan, Dia’s Nathalie de Gunzburg Director stated: “We are delighted that Spiral Jetty has received this important recognition... Beloved in Utah and far beyond... we are proud to continue our work caring and advocating for Spiral Jetty to preserve it for generations to come.”

Jordan Carter, Dia’s curator and co-department head added: “Spiral Jetty’s induction into the National Register of Historic Places acknowledges... our commitment to care for this singular work in perpetuity... elevates the work of our local partners in conserving the natural environment.”

Cory Jensen from Utah State Historic Preservation Office remarked on its significance: “It was obvious to me that this was not only of local significance but of national significance as well... we are pleased to see it finally receive this honor!”

The National Register of Historic Places serves as an official list aiming to protect America's historic sites. Established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 under the National Park Service's oversight, it coordinates efforts across public and private sectors.

Dia Art Foundation focuses on fostering ambitious artistic projects without traditional museum constraints. Since its establishment in 1974, it has supported numerous site-specific projects worldwide including Smithson's Spiral Jetty.